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Delhi Chokes: Diwali Fires Ignite Air Pollution Crisis
9 Nov
Summary
- Delhi's AQI reached 371, entering the 'very poor' category.
- PM2.5 levels neared 1,000 µg/m³ at some monitoring stations.
- Air quality deteriorated sharply on Sunday evening due to fireworks.
On Sunday evening, the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced a severe decline in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reaching 371. This placed the city in the 'very poor' category, nearing the 'severe' threshold.
Festivities were accompanied by a noticeable layer of smog and the distinct smell of firecracker smoke, according to social media reports. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicated hourly PM2.5 concentrations approached 1,000 micrograms per cubic metre at certain monitoring stations.
This deterioration represents Delhi's most polluted Diwali day since 2021. The CPCB categorizes AQI levels, with 0-50 being good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor, and 401-500 severe.
